SEATTLE - The next generation of Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox gaming console, due to be unveiled later this month, will give the world's largest software maker a chance to overtake the leader in the gaming business, Sony Corp., Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates said Monday. "Our goal in the last generation was to be in the game," Gates told reporters, "We came out of this round a strong number two."

Speaking at a business writers' convention in the United States, Microsoft chairman Bill Gates has confirmed that the next-generation Xbox console will launch this year. He told that Xenon's software menu would be similar to that of the company's Media Center edition of Windows, which is designed for computers meant to be located in the living room. Gates said that the newest version of the Xbox would have an array of features that will make the device a more versatile tool for games, music, video and pictures in the living room. Gates also emphasized how Xenon would take advantage of the growing availability of televisions and content in high-definition (HD) format, which allows clearer pictures to be displayed on large, wide screens.